10-Year Forest Management Plan Update: Invasive Species Removal to Begin in Priority Zone
Camp Ondessonk is taking a significant step forward in year one of its 10-Year Forest Management Plan, focusing on restoring the health and biodiversity of a key forested area near Pine Lake. Through a strategic partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Shawnee Resource Conservation & Development, Inc. (RC&D), restoration efforts will soon begin along Pakentuck Road toward our eastern property boundary near the East Branch Cedar Creek bluff line.
Why This Area Was Selected for Year One
The area slated for immediate attention was the site of a selective timber harvest several years ago. Following that disturbance, the area’s more-open canopy allowed invasive species—particularly bush honeysuckle—to flourish unchecked. Honeysuckle forms dense thickets that choke out native vegetation, reduce biodiversity, and prevent forest regeneration.
IDNR and RC&D have identified this specific area as ecologically critical and in dire need of invasive species management. By focusing on this region first, Camp Ondessonk and its partners aim to restore balance to the ecosystem and protect native flora and fauna for future generations.
What to Expect: Timeline and Process
Bid Selection and Project Partners
RC&D is currently identifying qualified forest restoration contractors. They will bring the top three bids to Camp Ondessonk for final review. Once a contractor is selected, planning and implementation will begin shortly thereafter, with fieldwork potentially starting as early as this summer and wrapping up by late fall.
Invasive Species Control Measures
The selected restoration contractor will:
- Remove the overgrowth of invasive plant species in the priority area
- Apply chemical treatments where necessary to ensure regrowth will be suppressed
- Adhere to best practices for environmentally responsible forest management
Funding and Support: A Cost-Effective Approach to Conservation
The good news is that RC&D has secured habitat restoration grants that will cover most—if not all—of the project’s direct costs. However, Camp Ondessonk may still need to meet a per-acre match requirement to fulfill grant conditions.
Fortunately, this match can be met through cash or “in-kind” contributions. Thanks to our recent efforts in:
- Prescribed burning
- Trail construction and maintenance
- Glade restoration efforts that will begin this summer
Camp Ondessonk is on track to meet the required match through in-kind work alone.
Why This Matters: Long-Term Benefits for Camp and Community
By restoring this critical area, Camp Ondessonk is:
- Supporting native species recovery
- Improving habitat quality for wildlife
- Creating a safer and more beautiful natural environment for campers, hikers, and future stewards of the land
This forest management work aligns with our environmental mission and provides educational and service-learning opportunities for campers to witness real-world conservation in action.
Stay Involved and Informed
We’ll continue to share updates on this and future phases of our 10-Year Forest Management Plan. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to Camp Ondessonk, your interest in our stewardship efforts makes a difference.
To learn more about our conservation partners, visit:
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr
- Shawnee RC&D: https://www.shawneercd.org
If you have any questions or want to learn how to support our land management efforts, please email us directly at evan.coulson@ondessonk.com.
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